Devotional: Continual Conversation With God

There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful than that of a continual conversation with God. - Brother Lawrence

The world often tempts us with fleeting pleasures, yet Brother Lawrence, a humble 17th-century monk, discovered a treasure far more precious: the joy of a continual conversation with God.

As we reflect on this quote by Brother Lawrence, we’re reminded that as Christians, our relationship with God isn’t just a scheduled appointment or a Sunday ritual. It’s an ongoing dialogue, where our souls intertwine with our Creator. When we converse with Him, our hearts are drawn into His presence, discovering peace, wisdom, and a joy that surpasses all understanding.

The Sweetness of His Presence

The psalmist exclaims, "Taste and see that the Lord is good!" (Psalm 34:8). By engaging in a ceaseless conversation with God, we experience the depth of His goodness. Like honey, His presence becomes a sweetness that delights our soul, bringing contentment and comfort even in the midst of turmoil.

The Delight of Being Known

To be deeply known and yet profoundly loved is a core human desire. Jeremiah 1:5 reminds us, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you." In our continual dialogue with God, we are reminded that we are not just faceless beings in a vast universe. We are intimately known, cherished, and held in the very palms of God’s hands.

The Ebb and Flow of Conversation

True conversation isn’t a monologue. As we pour out our hearts, presenting our joys, fears, and uncertainties, God responds. Sometimes, His response is a gentle nudge, a Scripture that leaps off the page, or a whisper in the quiet moments. At other times, His answer might come through the words of a friend, a song, or the beauty of nature. The key is to cultivate a listening heart, attuned to His voice.

Transformed by His Word

As Hebrews 4:12 states, "The word of God is alive and active." When our lives are centered around dialogue with God, we allow His living Word to penetrate our hearts, transforming us from the inside out. We begin to see the world through His eyes, love more deeply, and walk in greater faith.

In a world bursting with noise and violence, the call to a continual conversation with God might seem daunting. Yet, as Brother Lawrence discovered, it’s in this sacred dialogue that we find a life that is truly sweet and delightful. Whether it’s a whispered prayer, a song of praise, or silent meditation, let’s cherish and nurture this divine conversation. For in it, we discover a depth of joy and delight that the world can never offer.

The Power of Prayer: Learning To Hear God's Voice

I would like to share a powerful insight from Pete Greig's YouVersion Reading Plan, "How To Hear God." This 21-day plan, summarizing his book of the same title, is a must-try for anyone looking to deepen their connection with God.

On Day 1, Pete emphasizes, "Learning to hear God's voice is the single most important thing you will ever learn to do. It's not just for mystics; it's essential to our purpose. Without it, everything falls apart, but when we learn to love God's Word and listen, everything aligns.”

I recommend working through Pete's Reading Plans: How To Hear God, How To Pray, and God on Mute. I've personally read his books, and these plans are a treasure for your prayer life.

I'd also love to hear your insights. Comment below or send an email to jim@thechaplainwriter.com. Let's grow deeper in our prayer journey together.

Turning Mockery Into Motivation

Bryce Harper, the first baseman for the Philadelphia Phillies, made a running error and was picked off in a double play to end the game. The game happened to be against the Atlantia Braves in the NLDS, and the running error ended any chances for the Phillies to rally and win the game. Not only that, but it led to mockery from the opposing team, especially from one player, Arcia. The following game, Harper responded not with words but with action, hitting two home runs and staring down Arcia as he ran around the bases.

Everyone Has Bad Days

No matter how skilled or accomplished, every person will have moments of failure or vulnerability. Even the giants of faith, like David or Peter, had their weak moments.

Mockery Can Hurt, But It's a Choice to Let It Define You

When people mock or belittle you, it's natural to feel hurt. However, you can choose how to respond. Do you let their laughter define your worth, or do you turn to God, your true source of validation, and use that mockery as fuel to grow and prove yourself?

Redemption is Always Possible

Harper's two home runs the following night is a testament to the fact that one bad day doesn't define us. Similarly, God offers us redemption and new chances every day. Mistakes, setbacks, or sins from our past don't have to define our future. Through Christ, we are given a new slate and can rise above our past.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Instead of retaliating with words, Harper showed his worth through his performance. In our lives, when faced with naysayers or detractors, it's often more powerful to let our actions, behavior, and character speak for us. Living a life of integrity, love, and purpose is the best answer to those who doubt or mock us.

Embrace challenges and moments of mockery as opportunities to grow, to lean into God's strength, and to showcase His grace in our lives. Just as Harper didn't let one mistake define him, we shouldn't let our past or the opinions of others define our worth. With God by our side, we can always rise above.

October 10 is World Mental Health Day!

You may be asking, “What can I do to support mental health awareness?” I am glad you asked. Here are some steps you can take to support mental health awareness.

Educate Yourself

Learn about mental health issues and the stigma that often surrounds them. The more knowledgeable you are, the more you can help dispel myths.

Start a Conversation

Talk about mental health with friends, family, and colleagues. This helps normalize the discussion and encourages others to open up.

Listen Actively

If someone confides in you, listen without judgment and offer support. Sometimes, just being heard can make a big difference.

Prioritize Self-care

Engage in activities that promote your well-being, relaxation, and happiness. This could include exercise, reading, or simply spending time with loved ones.

Avoid Harmful Language

Be mindful of the words you use. Terms that belittle or mock mental health can perpetuate stigma.

Advocate

Push for mental health support at work or school, and support local organizations that offer mental health services.

Share Resources

Promote helplines, counseling services, or informational resources on social media or within your community.

Limit Alcohol and Drug Use

These substances can affect mood and can exacerbate mental health issues.

Limit Screen Time

Spending too much time online or in front of the TV can increase feelings of isolation. Ensure you have a balance of offline activities.

Connect with Nature

Spending time in nature, even just a walk in the park, has been shown to improve mental well-being.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you or someone you know is struggling, encourage seeking help from a therapist or counselor or chaplain.

Remember, everyone’s mental health journey is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. It's essential to find what's right for you and be there for others in their journey.

Also, text or call 988 when you are in distress. That is the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. It is available 24/7 and offers free and confidential support for people in distress. They also offer many different crisis resources.

You can also email me at jim@thechaplainwriter.com and I would be glad to assist in any way I can.

Called From The Wilderness: Embracing Our Mission With God's Promise of Presence

Moses, while tending sheep in the desert, encountered a burning bush through which God spoke to him. Tasked with freeing the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, Moses was filled with doubt, questioning his capability and worthiness for such a mission. This sentiment resonates with many of us who, when faced with significant tasks or challenges, question our abilities and worthiness. Moses' hesitancy was grounded; he was an exile, had a speech issue, and was wanted in Egypt for murder. However, God's assurance to Moses was clear: "I will be with you." Today, the pursuit of perfection often overshadows our actions. But God does not necessarily call the prepared but prepares the called. Numerous biblical figures, including Moses, Jeremiah, and Gideon, doubted their capacities. Yet, their perceived weaknesses became vessels for God's strength. Feelings of inadequacy shouldn't deter you from your purpose. When God tasks you, he accompanies and strengthens you in the journey. Therefore, you should approach challenges with faith, remembering that God's promise is always, "I will be with you."

Healing from Violence: The Role of Chaplains and Caregivers

Violence, in any form, leaves indelible scars on its victims, both physically and emotionally. The aftermath often spirals into a myriad of emotions - fear, anger, confusion, and sorrow. It's during these tumultuous times that chaplains and caregivers can play a crucial role in the healing process. Their guidance, rooted in empathy, faith, and understanding, can offer solace to those battling the harrowing effects of violence.

Offering a Listening Ear

Often, victims of violence grapple with their experience in isolation, feeling alone in their pain. Chaplains and caregivers provide a safe space for these individuals to voice their fears, anger, and confusion. Listening without judgment allows victims to process their emotions, understand their trauma, and gradually embark on the path to healing.

Spiritual Counseling

For many, faith is a sanctuary during turbulent times. Chaplains, in particular, are well-equipped to offer spiritual guidance. By referencing scripture or sharing faith-based perspectives, they can provide a sense of hope and purpose. Reminding victims of the love, strength, and compassion inherent in religious teachings can be a comforting balm, helping them reconcile with their experiences and regain spiritual equilibrium.

Empowerment through Resources

Knowledge is power. Caregivers and chaplains can guide victims to resources, be it therapy, support groups, or legal assistance. By providing them with tools and information, they empower victims to reclaim control over their lives and make informed decisions about their next steps.

Promoting Forgiveness

While it's essential to acknowledge and validate feelings of anger and desire for justice, chaplains can gently introduce the concept of forgiveness as a part of the healing journey. It's crucial to clarify that forgiveness doesn't excuse the act of violence or mean forgetting. Instead, it’s a release from the chains of bitterness, allowing the victim to find peace and move forward.

Encouraging Community Support

The adage "it takes a village" holds when helping victims of violence. Chaplains and caregivers can encourage victims to seek support from their community, be it through group therapy, community events, or local religious congregations. Being surrounded by understanding and empathetic individuals can expedite the healing process.

Validating Emotions

Victims often grapple with a gamut of emotions, sometimes even guilt or shame. Caregivers must validate these feelings, emphasizing that the blame lies squarely with the perpetrator, not the victim. This validation is a crucial step in helping victims come to terms with their trauma.

Introducing Coping Mechanisms

Healing is a process, and along the way, victims might face triggers or challenging days. Chaplains and caregivers can equip them with coping mechanisms—meditation, prayer, journaling, or breathing exercises—that can provide solace during these moments.

Advocating for Justice

While emotional and spiritual healing is paramount, chaplains and caregivers should also advocate for justice. Whether it's assisting victims in reporting the violence, guiding them through legal processes, or simply standing by their side during court proceedings, their support ensures that victims are not alone in their quest for justice.

Healing from violence is a multifaceted journey that requires patience, understanding, and a combination of spiritual, emotional, and practical support. Chaplains and caregivers, with their unique blend of empathy and resources, can play an instrumental role in guiding victims out of the shadows of their trauma and into the light of healing and hope. Their efforts don't just mend broken spirits; they restore faith in humanity and the belief in a brighter, safer future.

Discovering Hope Amidst Gethsemane Moments: My Journey To Write

About eight years ago, a traumatic event shook my world, and for six months, I kept it all to myself, grappling with anxiety and depression in silence. A counselor later came to my aid, but I longed for a book that could help me to understand my experiences and offer a glimmer of hope. Eventually, I stumbled upon a metaphor that helped—the Biblical account of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Like many, I realize that life's trials often lead us to Gethsemane-like moments, where decisions feel agonizing and our strength is tested. It was this realization that sparked the desire to write a book that could offer hope for others navigating their struggles.

In Embracing Gethsemane: Navigating Life’s Darkest Moments, I intend to share snippets of my journey of healing and growth, hoping to offer comfort to those who feel isolated in their pain. Exploring the metaphor of Gethsemane, I will attempt to explain how you can find comfort and discover resilience within the promises of God.

Throughout my writing process, I will be sharing updates on my blog, and I invite you to accompany me on this voyage of discovery and renewal. Together, we will delve into the depths of our experiences, emerging with newfound hope and understanding.

Bookmark this page and return often, for my commitment to transparency will give you a glimpse into my progress. As I write, I hope to connect with as many of you as possible, bridging the gap of loneliness that often accompanies trying times.

If you need support or have questions along the way, I encourage you to reach out. My email address is jim@thechaplainwriter.com. I am here to lend an ear and offer any assistance I can.

The journey of writing this book is more than just catharsis for me; it is an act of compassion towards all who endure their own Gethsemane moments. I hope that by sharing my experiences and insights, you will find comfort, strength, and above all, hope. May this book become a guide to navigate through life's storms and emerge into the light of the healing that is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Thoughts On The Route 95 Bridge Collapse

Recently I found myself entangled in the chaos of the recent bridge collapse in Philadelphia. The traffic was horrendous, turning what should have been a 45-minute journey home from my final chaplain assignment into an arduous 1 hour and 45 minutes. Frustration began to consume me as I navigated through the unfamiliar streets of North Philly, relying on my phone's GPS for guidance. Little did I know that it hadn't been updated with the recent road closures caused by the bridge collapse.

In the midst of my aggravation, God gently intervened, bringing me back to reality. He placed me behind not one, but two trucks from companies where I serve as a chaplain. It was a divine moment, as if God was whispering to me, "Instead of focusing on your own frustrations, why not uplift and pray for these drivers, for whom you are their chaplain?"

Suddenly, my perspective shifted. I realized that my role as a chaplain extended beyond the confines of a formal assignment. In that very moment, I had the opportunity to offer support, encouragement, and prayer to those around me—my fellow travelers on this challenging road. Gratitude flooded my heart for the reminder that God had bestowed upon me during this difficult homeward journey.

Life often throws unexpected obstacles our way, disrupting our plans and stirring frustration within us. Yet, in these moments, we have a choice to make. Will we succumb to our own self-centered irritation, or will we embrace the divine appointments placed before us? God has a way of using even the most inconvenient circumstances to remind us of His presence and invite us to extend His love to others.

As we navigate the roads of life, may we remember that our journeys are not solely about reaching our intended destinations, but about the lives we encounter along the way. Let us be attuned to the opportunities God presents us with, whether it be in the midst of traffic or in the ordinary moments of our everyday lives. May we embrace these moments as invitations to be His vessels of compassion, support, and prayer, shining His light in the midst of darkness.

Today, I am grateful for the way that the traffic slowed my journey and opened my eyes to the needs of others. May we all find inspiration in the most unexpected places and choose to serve as vessels of God's grace and love to those around us.

A Storm with no name

When a storm hits close to home you're often left picking up the pieces thinking where do I go from here.

"It's been more than a week since this storm with no name began dumping rains at a "1,000-year rate" across much of south Louisiana, triggering flooding from west of Lafayette to east of Hammond."

Storms don't discriminate.  They do not care what neighborhood or city you live in or the tax bracket you may find yourself in.  Baton Rouge has gone through the tale of two summers.  It was only two months ago they found themselves in a racial divide over the high profile police shooting of Alton Sterling.  The following week 3 Officers where then shot and killed.

When everything you own is at the curb for the trash truck to remove you are suddenly faced with a life alter perspective.  You realize your neighbors are in the same situation you are.   They are people just like you.  They are made in the image of God.  They are the people of your city as well.  They suffer in the same ways we do.

One striking verse of Scripture is found in the book of Amos.

“Does disaster come to a city, unless the Lord has done it?” (Amos 3:6).

We see in Scripture that the Lord wills whatever comes to pass.  This is called the "Sovereignty of God."  It is God who decides what comes to pass.  It is ultimately for His glory that we pass through trials.  Consider what James tells us in his own way:

“Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’ — yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’” James 4:13-15

While we maybe picking up the pieces from a storm, a natural disaster, house fire or saying goodbye to a loved one with a terminal illness or a personal tragedy, God hears our prayers when we go to Him.  We can know for certain that God is the one who has the victory, everything comes to pass for His purpose and our good.

Brussels

I have reflected on the bombings in Brussels and asking, "How can this happen?"

Incidents like this give us pause, and we may even wonder why God allows things like this to happen. If He is all-powerful, why does He allow evil men to impose their wills on seemingly innocent people.

Some may even say that this is further proof that God doesn't exist. For, if He did, He would surely prevent evil men from committing these kinds of crimes upon humanity.

So what do we do? Do we blame God? Or, do we take the next step and say, "See, God doesn't really exist after all. For, if He did, then this kind of evil wouldn't continue to happen."

I am truly sad so many were injured and lost their lives. I too am weary of all that is happening around the world. After all, I visited Ground Zero on a couple different occasions while the pile was still smoking. I prayed as the remains of victims were found, wrapped in American flags, and brought to the entrance. I felt totally unworthy to pray with the rescue workers who worked tirelessly day after day and moved the remains of victims to the morgue. I will never forget those images and the smells. They are forever ingrained in my mind.

Instead of declaring that God doesn't exist, I affirm that evils such as what happened in Brussels are further proof that He exists. If He didn't, then we would have no standard or authority to say that the bombing was evil. What would be our standard if there were no God?

If you are a student of history, you may be aware that it hasn't been until around the eighteenth century that American culture began to drift away from more traditional beliefs in God. Our society slowly shifted to a more secular view of life apart from God. We began to expect that if we did the right things, then good things would always happen. If disaster happened, then God has failed us in some way.

However, as Tim Keller observes in his book, Walking With God Though Pain and Suffering, "pain and evil in this world are pervasive and deep and have spiritual roots.".

And as philosopher Charles Taylor also noted, "It is as we get larger in our own eyes, less dependent on God's grace and revelation, and surer that we understand how this universe works and how history should go that the problem of evil becomes so intolerable."

I believe the Christian view of suffering is the only one that helps to make sense of 9/11, Paris, Brussels and the next mass shooting or bombing. What is the Christian view of suffering and evil? This view of suffering and evil can be summarized clearly and precisely by Tim Keller in Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering. He affirms four tenants of Christian belief.

The first is a belief in a personal, wise, infinite, and therefore inscrutable God who controls the affairs of the world - and that is far more comforting than the belief that our lives are in the hands of fickle fate or random chance.

The second tenant is that, in Jesus Christ, God came to earth and suffered with and for us sacrificial lay - and that is far more compelling than the idea that God is remote and uninvolved.

The third tenant is that through faith in Christ's work on the cross, we can have assurance of our salvation - that is far more comforting than the karmic systems of thought.

The fourth tenant is that of the bodily resurrection from the dead for all who believe.

This then begs the question: why does God allow evil and suffering?

I will respond to that in my next post.

The First Seven Episodes

It is hard to believe that we have already uploaded seven episodes of The Hope Podcast. We want to thank everyone for taking time to listen to the podcast - we truly appreciate it!

I am honored to be working and create each episode with our son Scott. I have often wanted to find something that we could work on together and this is it! Thanks Scott for all you have done to turn this vision into a reality. You are doing an awesome job and I love working with you!

The Hope Podcast is simply a vehicle whereby I have taken my story and turned it into something to offer hope to others. I shared in the first episode that I struggle with anxiety and depression, so the first four episodes laid the foundation for the podcast. I have also been blessed by those who have been interviewed. Bridget Wint, Thomas Loman and Tom and Tamara Miller have shared their stories of pain, depression, sadness, lost, and then re-discovered hope. I appreciated their transparency. They each affirm that their hope rests also in Jesus. I also appreciate the lessons I am learning along the way. One is that many who struggle with anxiety and depression do not need another lecture about having more faith. Instead, they need someone to sit and listen. That has also been true in my own life.

 It has also been amazing to see where our listening audience is located. From the United States, to Africa, to Europe and also Saudia Arabia. It is awesome to watch God use this technology to spread the story of how He gives us hope.

We invite you to continue the journey with us. And, we also encourage you pray that many more will discover hope through the podcast. That, after all, is why it exists.

Warm Regards,

Jim Leary
Host: The Hope Podcast

3 Episodes In

We hope you have been encouraged and blessed by the Podcasts so far.  It has been great seeing the downloads and hearing the responses. Today we have posted Episode 3 which is called "A Hopeful Realism."  I wanted to share what has been on my heart this past week.  We have been talking about Hopeful Realism in the beginning of our Podcast.  It cannot get more Real than in the Psalms.  In fact Martin Luther one of the Protestant Reformers called the Psalms "A Little Bible."  It covers everything there is in life.  In my church (Scott here) one of our Pastoral Interns gave a sermon on Psalm 73.  I was reminded while listening to this Sermon that this is a Psalm of Hopeful Realism.  It begins with the reminder that God is good.  Yet the Psalm then moves through a struggle with the success of whom the Psalmist calls the "wicked."  So often our emotional struggles begin when we look at others.  We want what they have.. and we wonder why they don't struggle like we do.  We obsess about ourselves which is exactly what the world wants us to do.  Then the Psalmist finally remembers who the Holy God is and his need for a mediator. 

 Like a dream when one awakes,
  O Lord, when you rouse yourself, you despise them as phantoms.
When my soul was embittered,
  when I was pricked in heart,
I was brutish and ignorant;
  I was like a beast toward you.
  Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
  you hold my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
  and afterward you will receive me to glory.
Whom have I in heaven but you?
  And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail,
  but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
 (Psalm 73:20-26 ESV)

So keep your Hopeful Realism grounded in the Scriptures and your God.  He is your strength and your portion.  He will be your guide.  Remember the importance of setting your mind of the things above.  If you are in Christ you are a new creation, fix your eyes on Him!

We're Live

We are happy to announce that our first Episode is live.

You can find our first Episode by clicking the Episode tab above.  Or you can also click here to go our page on Itunes and subscribe to get our weekly episodes delivered to your Podcast catcher.

Feel free to interact with us on our Facebook page or email us at thehopepodcast@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Caring for Disease or Inner Self

"We very speedily care for bodily diseases; they are too painful to let us slumber in silence: and they soon urge us to seek a physician or a surgeon for our healing.  Oh, if we were as much alive to the more serious wounds of inner man."

quoted from Spurgeons Sorrows, Eswine, Zack- Charles Spurgeon, "Healing for the Wounded, " The New Park Street Pulpit (NPSP) Sermon 53 in the Spurgeon Archive (http://www.spurgeon.org/sermons/0053.htm), accessed 12/13/13

I (Scott) have found Spurgeons Sorrows a book by Zack Eswine very helpful.  Charles Haddon Spurgeon highlights above how little time we give to our inner thoughts.  I am learning how little time people give to discussions of the heart and inner self.  So many of us have never spoke with or shared our struggles with losing hope.  Most of us are lead to believe that there is no one else who feels the way we do.   This cannot be further from the truth.  In the coming weeks, The Hope Podcast will be sharing stories from people who turned from despair to find hope. 

Hope Podcast is coming!

We are excited about the Hope Podcast!  It has been a long journey.  This picture is a trail in New Jersey.  We use trails for a light brisk walk in the afternoon or a hard training run in the morning or night.  Either way all of us are on our own trails of life.  It is our desire that this podcast will help people find the end of the trail and find hope along the way.  While you are here find our Facebook page here and be apart of the conversation starting here at the Hope Podcast. 

Episodes are coming soon!